Do we need more energy or more conservation?

March 30, 2017
Bob Sanders

Energy demand is going down, energy supply not so much. So if we commit ourselves to build expensive power projects we won’t need, the price of energy will go up.

That’s the simple economic idea behind a recently released report by the Carsey School of Public Policy at the University of New Hampshire, yet it flies in the face of conventional wisdom as the state sits on the threshold of a new and complicated energy future.

It comes when utilities and conservationists are duking it out at the state and regional level over whether to devote ratepayer or taxpayer resources to increase supply capacity — which includes everything from gas pipelines to the Northern Pass — or to dampen demand by encouraging renewables and energy efficiency.

What will drive down, or drive up, energy prices? It depends on who you talk to.

NH Business Review

NH’s Energy Future is Now!

New Hampshire needs sensible, consistent, long term energy policies that will continue to strengthen our State’s economy and support the growing use of clean energy technologies and efficiencies. No one organization or sector has all the answers. This effort will promote approaches that help ratepayers lower their bills; ensure more reliable and affordable energy; and secure the ability of homeowners, businesses of all size, and municipalities to make the energy choices that are right for them.